Preview — Trans Mission
by Alex Bertie

Trans Mission: My Quest to a Beard

A brave first-hand account of online personality Alex Bertie's life, struggles, and victories as a transgender teen, as well as a groundbreaking guide for transitioning teen.

I guess we should start at the beginning. I was born on November 2nd, 1995. The doctors in the hospital took one look at my genitals and slapped an F on my birth certificate. 'F' for female, not fail-A brave first-hand account of online personality Alex Bertie's life, struggles, and victories as a transgender teen, as well as a groundbreaking guide for transitioning teen.

I guess we should start at the beginning. I was born on November 2nd, 1995. The doctors in the hospital took one look at my genitals and slapped an F on my birth certificate. 'F' for female, not fail--though that would actually have been kind of appropriate given present circumstances.

When I was fifteen, I realized I was a transgender man. That makes it sound like I had some kind of lightbulb moment. In reality, coming to grips with my identity has taken a long time.

Over the last six years, I've come out to my family and friends, changed my name, battled the healthcare system, started taking male hormones and have had surgery on my chest. My quest to a beard is almost complete. This is my story.Accessible and emotional, Trans Mission fills a gap in nonfiction about and for transgender teens....more

Community Reviews

A very "trans 101" read, not a bad thing in itself but I was expecting a bit more. Honestly, a lot of this info you can find on Alex's/other FtM's YT channels, so I was hoping that this book would dive past the surface. I guess I was just disappointed Alex chose not to speak so much about his own life, rather give general advice that I could get from anywhere else. (Yes, he talks a bit about the hormone process in UK, etc. but it's distant & brief.) It's a very quick read, but I kept puttingA very "trans 101" read, not a bad thing in itself but I was expecting a bit more. Honestly, a lot of this info you can find on Alex's/other FtM's YT channels, so I was hoping that this book would dive past the surface. I guess I was just disappointed Alex chose not to speak so much about his own life, rather give general advice that I could get from anywhere else. (Yes, he talks a bit about the hormone process in UK, etc. but it's distant & brief.) It's a very quick read, but I kept putting it down because I was getting bored. My favorite part was the portion of Alex's mum answering questions- it felt like the most forthcoming & honest part of the book. This would be an excellent read for those not familiar with trans topics, but there's really nothing new worth noting....more

This is a brutally honest and at times painfully introspective examination of the process of transitioning FtM from young British YouTuber Alex Bertie.

For Alex, living in the UK, the journey has been a long process from the gradual realisation that he felt different and wrong in his skin and assigned at birth gender, to the struggle to get into the NHS system to start his transition.

But he also acknowledges that its been an easier process than it would be elsewhere in the world and it's this wiThis is a brutally honest and at times painfully introspective examination of the process of transitioning FtM from young British YouTuber Alex Bertie.

For Alex, living in the UK, the journey has been a long process from the gradual realisation that he felt different and wrong in his skin and assigned at birth gender, to the struggle to get into the NHS system to start his transition.

But he also acknowledges that its been an easier process than it would be elsewhere in the world and it's this wider awareness of intention to educate which is prevalent throughout the book.

With insights from his mum as well about what it's like to be the parent of a transgender child, this book should be on the shelf of every library and school in the UK.

It uses easily understandable language and simple explanations to lay bare the hugely emotional and physical changes Alex has gone through and makes no excuses for the struggles he still deals with.

I'd advise anyone who wishes to be an ally to the trans community to pick it up because, although it focuses on female to male transitioning, it also contains a lot of really sensible advice for anyone interacting with those questioning their identity.

#ARC received from the publishers via NetGalley in return for an honest and unbiased review....more

It's been a while since I read this book and I've been meaning to review it but sadly I've been really busy and have fallen behind with both reviews and blogging. As a trans guy who's followed Alex Bertie ever since I moved to the UK almost 2 years ago, I was really excited about being able to read his book and jumped at the chance to the second I saw it on Netgalley. Sadly, I was disappointed. While Alex is great on video the book felt poorly written and awkwardly flowing, had it been an audiobIt's been a while since I read this book and I've been meaning to review it but sadly I've been really busy and have fallen behind with both reviews and blogging. As a trans guy who's followed Alex Bertie ever since I moved to the UK almost 2 years ago, I was really excited about being able to read his book and jumped at the chance to the second I saw it on Netgalley. Sadly, I was disappointed. While Alex is great on video the book felt poorly written and awkwardly flowing, had it been an audiobook I think my opinion of it would be way more favourable. Overall I think it could be a good book for allies and trans guys early in their transition who prefer written media and want to have a single comprehensive narrative, for everyone else I recommend you stick with his youtube channel.

I received a copy of the book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review....more

While I personally didn't gain much from this book, this is a *MUST HAVE* for any school and library, this should be available to teens and adults everywhere.Trans Mission is a combination of Alex Bertie's personal journey transitioning to male, what that means, and explaining the steps one takes to transition in a way that is direct and makes sense to readers who may not understand. Transitioning takes both an emotional and physical toll, sometimes reshaping relationships for better or worse.While I personally didn't gain much from this book, this is a *MUST HAVE* for any school and library, this should be available to teens and adults everywhere.Trans Mission is a combination of Alex Bertie's personal journey transitioning to male, what that means, and explaining the steps one takes to transition in a way that is direct and makes sense to readers who may not understand. Transitioning takes both an emotional and physical toll, sometimes reshaping relationships for better or worse. Bertie recounts coming out to family and friends, as well as his medical process. This is an essential account of a serious topic, but written in an upbeat way. A must have for teens and the spaces they occupy....more

Finally had time to sit down and finish reading this book which I was already so excited to read when I found it in the bookstore.

Before reading this book,I had no clue who Alex was or that he was on YouTube, but being a massive supporter of the lgbt+ community and having friends/being apart of it myself, I always find myself drawn to reading about/ wanting to read about and learn other peoples stories and genuinely just being more educated on everything.

It’s definitely a book I’d recommend to eFinally had time to sit down and finish reading this book which I was already so excited to read when I found it in the bookstore.

Before reading this book,I had no clue who Alex was or that he was on YouTube, but being a massive supporter of the lgbt+ community and having friends/being apart of it myself, I always find myself drawn to reading about/ wanting to read about and learn other peoples stories and genuinely just being more educated on everything.

It’s definitely a book I’d recommend to everyone, no matter what gender or sexuality you are because his story is very interesting and insightful and it made me more aware of things in general....more

It's a bit Trans: 101, but it might actually be great for people who want to learn more about the basics! I guess I'd just been expecting something a bit more advanced from a youtuber who's pretty much dedicated his life to the subject. Even so, it's a good introduction for people unfamiliar with the topic!

Alex Bertie was born female, came out when he went to college and has recently started his female to male transition. He has documented this on his popular YouTube channel sharing his journey, treatment and surgery. However, this book starts with his childhood years and continues with his story through the tweens, teens and into young adulthood.

It is a first-hand account of the passage of a young transgender man, told openly and honestly in a comfortable, relaxed style and with an authentic voicAlex Bertie was born female, came out when he went to college and has recently started his female to male transition. He has documented this on his popular YouTube channel sharing his journey, treatment and surgery. However, this book starts with his childhood years and continues with his story through the tweens, teens and into young adulthood.

It is a first-hand account of the passage of a young transgender man, told openly and honestly in a comfortable, relaxed style and with an authentic voice. The writing is lively and personal, the advice given is not preachy but rather practical and down-to-earth; Alex doesn’t confess to having all the answers but raises questions that make the reader think. The format is accessible with quotes in bold font and there are chapters on the physical, social and emotional aspects of transitioning as well as one written by his mother. Additionally, there are lists of useful websites covering transcultures, information, rights and support.

An excellent addition to the school library shelves, this book would be useful not only for those considering or undertaking transition but also their friends and family. Although possibly aimed at teenagers, I would not want to restrict access to this book....more

Alex Bertie is a well-known trans YouTuber. I've been following his videos for a few months and have found them to be a great resource. Currently there seems to be a wave of anti-trans propaganda in the British media which is misleading and fallacious at best, downright dangerous at worst. That's why I think this book is so important. It's accessible, written in clear and simple language, and doesn't presuppose any prior knowledge. I think it's going to be5 stars because this book is important!

Alex Bertie is a well-known trans YouTuber. I've been following his videos for a few months and have found them to be a great resource. Currently there seems to be a wave of anti-trans propaganda in the British media which is misleading and fallacious at best, downright dangerous at worst. That's why I think this book is so important. It's accessible, written in clear and simple language, and doesn't presuppose any prior knowledge. I think it's going to be particularly useful for FTM/transmasculine teens and their families. I didn't feel that it was really targeted to my age group, but I wish I'd had it to read as a teenager. I also didn't learn anything new, but I certainly enjoyed reading it.

This is Alex's story, from his tomboy childhood, to figuring out he was trans, coming out, and accessing the healthcare he needed. And it's from a UK perspective, as a bonus! Of course, it's only one particular guy's experience and he doesn't pretend to represent everyone, but I think most transmasc people will find something here to relate to. He also devotes chapters to hormones, different surgeries trans guys may choose to get, and things like sex and relationships and job hunting while trans. You won't get all the information you need from this book, but it's a great springboard and he provides a list of resources at the back of the book for further reading. Also included is a chapter written by his mother, which I thought was a nice touch. This book would be really useful to give to your family and friends to read if you're a trans guy and you want them to have a better understanding of what you're going through. It's a quick, easy, and humourous read.

The more trans voices there are out there, the better! It can literally save lives. That's why I think books like this are so important!...more

Alex has been one of my favourite youtubers for a long time, due to the fact that i relate to him so much. Ever since i heard about this book I've been super excited. And it definitely didn't disappoint! I honestly enjoyed this book so much, it was not only well written and formatted but also educational. I recently came out to my parents as FTM and the process of trying to help them understand has been excruciating. Especially since their way of coping is by completely ignoring the whole topic.Alex has been one of my favourite youtubers for a long time, due to the fact that i relate to him so much. Ever since i heard about this book I've been super excited. And it definitely didn't disappoint! I honestly enjoyed this book so much, it was not only well written and formatted but also educational. I recently came out to my parents as FTM and the process of trying to help them understand has been excruciating. Especially since their way of coping is by completely ignoring the whole topic. But i think them reading this could really help. Thanks to Alex for writing this book!...more

Excellent! This is an ideal book for young trans people, their parents or anyone interested in understanding the complexity of gender transition. It’s an honestly written account of one person’s journey, packed with sound advice for others.

I felt like a proud older sister reading this book as I've "followed" Alex on his YouTube channel since nearly the beginning (before he was Alex). I'm so pleased he wrote this book, it gives a honest and a fairly emotionally raw account of what his life is like. I really enjoyed this autobiography . Well done Mr Bertie. Now I'll go finish watching one of his videos. :)

I've been following Alex on his YouTube channel for years now. Even before he came out as trans and I was still questioning.I don't know where I would be today without his videos and those of other trans YouTubers. Visibility is immensely important so I'm beyond grateful that he's still doing his thing and even got to write his own book!

Most of the things described in this book I already new about but that didn't matter.It felt really empowering to just hold the book in my hands and actually reaI've been following Alex on his YouTube channel for years now. Even before he came out as trans and I was still questioning.I don't know where I would be today without his videos and those of other trans YouTubers. Visibility is immensely important so I'm beyond grateful that he's still doing his thing and even got to write his own book!

Most of the things described in this book I already new about but that didn't matter.It felt really empowering to just hold the book in my hands and actually read about his journey!

It's a big step forward and I hope both his book and his YouTube channel continue to help people in the future.

EVERYONE NEEDS TO READ THIS!!! Especially those who are trans, have trans friends or family members! It's so enlightening and upbeat and very interesting. While I know Alex doesn't speak for all trans people, this was actually a very useful source of info for me (a trans man) and I could feel some of my own emotions and thoughts in these pages.

Overall such a good read, I'm so Proud of Alex for what he's managed to create.

Trans Mission is a lively memoir about being a young trans man that can be read by younger and older readers. Alex Bertie is a Youtuber who has made videos about LGBT+ topics as they affect him and others, and in this book he tells his own story of working out his identity and starting the transitioning process for him. He writes in a simple, engaging style that does not presume familiarity with the terminology he uses and that describes personal emotion in a realistic way to the extent he is clTrans Mission is a lively memoir about being a young trans man that can be read by younger and older readers. Alex Bertie is a Youtuber who has made videos about LGBT+ topics as they affect him and others, and in this book he tells his own story of working out his identity and starting the transitioning process for him. He writes in a simple, engaging style that does not presume familiarity with the terminology he uses and that describes personal emotion in a realistic way to the extent he is clearly comfortable with. The book is aimed at wide audience, from older children and teenagers who may or may not be questioning their own gender identity to parents wanting to support a trans child or know more about the experience.

Most of the book is Alex’s personal story as told by him, though it also features a small section by his mum at the end, a glossary, and a list of resources. It isn’t the kind of memoir that requires familiarity with the author, though it is likely his YouTube fans will enjoy reading it. He talks about wanting to be informed about the topics he talks about in his videos whether they are personal or not, and it is clear that in Trans Mission he has worked hard to show the range of experiences that trans men can have, of which his story is only one version. This emphasis is important and makes the book one that can help readers see their similarities and differences and appreciate that this is okay.

Bertie’s book should be read and shared particularly by teenagers so that it can affirm the experiences of some individuals and help others to be supportive of friends and peers. Being written by a man in his twenties, it feels relevant and up to date, whilst also being a funny and emotional personal story that will hopefully appeal to a whole range of other people, both LGBT and not. By sharing the story of a young trans man and his recent experiences of being trans in the present day UK, the book will give hope to some and open the eyes of others, and it is important that LGBT+ experiences lived by a range of people get to be read and related to....more

Some weeks ago I talked about ressources for top surgery with one of my trans friend. At some point he talked about this book and I told him that I would like to read it.

Trans Mission: My Quest to a Beard is a great nonfiction book. I liked that it was a mix between Alex's experience and informations. Because like Alex says he has experienced everything.

It must have been hard to write a book about his experiences as a pansexual trans guy and at the same time writing a book that can educate peoSome weeks ago I talked about ressources for top surgery with one of my trans friend. At some point he talked about this book and I told him that I would like to read it.

Trans Mission: My Quest to a Beard is a great nonfiction book. I liked that it was a mix between Alex's experience and informations. Because like Alex says he has experienced everything.

It must have been hard to write a book about his experiences as a pansexual trans guy and at the same time writing a book that can educate people.

I think he did a great job at it with binder diy, glossary and links of ressources. I also liked that he explained the importance of being called out and educating yourself. He have expemple of the difference between the UK and USA which was great.

other things that I liked right from the start Alex explains that intersex people exist. That gender isn't a binary (non binary is also mentionned)

And that's not all ! Aromantic, asexual and demisexual are mentionned ! Personally I thought the definitions weren't bad

what I didn't like

Here are two quotes that I disliked

"I'm a man and two men getting together is gay, simple as."

The problem here is that it implies that a m/m relationship is gay but one of them can be pan or demi or aro or bi. And you can't say that it's automatically gay. And it was weird because in another chapter he explained while that idea was wrong. So why don't add something right after that sentence if you know it's bad ?

"I identify as pansexual rather than bisexual because even though they might seem the same, pansexual as a term is generally more inclusive of identities outside of the gender binary."

I'm not going to say what his experience should be because it's not about that and it's wrong to do that. No, my problem is that we find again the idea that bisexuality isn't inclusive which is false. You can be bisexual and attracted to two or more gender and guess what ? You can be attracted to enby people.

If what you are looking for is a relatable, insightful and honest insight into life as a transgender man, Alex Bertie’s Trans Mission is exactly the place to start. All too often when looking at trans media in the past I have found they’re not made with a trans audience in mind. Instead there is a painful tendency for cisgendered creators to sensationalise or alienate the transgender stories they are telling. Not once did Trans Mission give me that feeling, instead it is Alex’s truth: a raw trutIf what you are looking for is a relatable, insightful and honest insight into life as a transgender man, Alex Bertie’s Trans Mission is exactly the place to start. All too often when looking at trans media in the past I have found they’re not made with a trans audience in mind. Instead there is a painful tendency for cisgendered creators to sensationalise or alienate the transgender stories they are telling. Not once did Trans Mission give me that feeling, instead it is Alex’s truth: a raw truth not at all dissimilar to countless men around the world.

Though that does not mean you have to be trans to gain something from this book. In telling his story of growing up, coming out and navigating the NHS as trans, Alex’s primary goal it to educate. While there are sections on safe binding practices and coping with dysphoria to help young trans gender people, Trans Mission is also capable of teaching friends and relatives about those who identify as trans–be this through the importance of using the correct names and pronouns, why certain experiences could make trans people feel a certain way, or even just to understand the hardships facing trans people in day to day life.

A brilliant addition to this educational nature of the book is the chapter towards the end written by Alex’s mother. While it is beyond important to respect a trans person in their identity, I believe this insight into multiple perspectives takes Trans Mission to a whole new level. In reading this chapter a young trans person may be able to better understand their own parents’ reactions to their coming out, likewise a parent reading this would also have someone to relate to, both of which could be immensely beneficial to a family navigating these experiences together.

What I found most enjoyable about this read, however, was how truly relatable Alex’s writing became the deeper I went into the book. One chapter in particular stood out to me: the chapter on haircuts. While reading this I couldn’t help but be transported back even a few months to an experience of my own: myself out as trans for the first time and with a group of other ftm trans friends, all discussing the fact that ever trans guy has a haircut story. With that in mind it was no wonder Alex included a chapter like that in his book. Although a haircut can be such a simple thing, for many, it can be an incredible first step in a person’s transition, and it is this which cemented the connection and sense of community I felt with this book. It very well may be this reliability which brings the most benefit to young people reading Trans Mission as it proves anyone experiencing these same feelings aren’t alone.

I truly believe Trans Mission is a brilliant place to start for anyone hoping to learn more about life as a transgender person, but it is just that: a start. While Alex’s story is deeply insightful and honest, his is just one of countless stories which have mostly, until this point, gone untold. Every trans person’s experience differs, but the more books like this appearing out there the better we will all be for it. But, for now, I can’t recommend this enough....more

@Kidlitexchange #partner - I received a copy of this book from the Kidlitexchange network in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Releasing 5/19/19

This is the account of YouTube personality Alex Bertie's life as a transgender teen from his journey to understanding himself to taking definite steps toward living a full life in the body that's right for him.

Alex takes the reader by the hand and walks them through everything from explaining how he struggled and still does at times@Kidlitexchange #partner - I received a copy of this book from the Kidlitexchange network in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Releasing 5/19/19

This is the account of YouTube personality Alex Bertie's life as a transgender teen from his journey to understanding himself to taking definite steps toward living a full life in the body that's right for him.

Alex takes the reader by the hand and walks them through everything from explaining how he struggled and still does at times with body dysphoria to coming out to friends and family, starting hormones, having top surgery, and basically doing his best to live a happy life.

Alex talks about everything and I mean EVERYTHING. He pulls no punches but does so with a lot of care and I love that.

As a parent, the part involving his mother’s own account touched me a lot and I’m glad she got to participate and share her experience. I recommend this to parents and their teenagers even if they are cisgendered because I believe that knowledge and understanding can be the first steps toward empathy....more

I've been meaning to read this since last year, but when I saw the audio book would be out I preordered it promptly (my first audiobook preorder!) then waited for it to come out.

I'll admit I didn't know who Alex Bertie was before this book, I grabbed it because it sounded like a memoir about the later points of FTM transition. The book does cover a lot of those points, but does cover earlier in Alex's life as well as giving a quick primer on trans terms and issues, and also the thriving YoutubeI've been meaning to read this since last year, but when I saw the audio book would be out I preordered it promptly (my first audiobook preorder!) then waited for it to come out.

I'll admit I didn't know who Alex Bertie was before this book, I grabbed it because it sounded like a memoir about the later points of FTM transition. The book does cover a lot of those points, but does cover earlier in Alex's life as well as giving a quick primer on trans terms and issues, and also the thriving Youtube trans community.

I especially liked the little audiobook add-on where there was a chapter/epilogue at the end where Bertie (yes, he is the narrator for his own book, I love this) gives an update on his life, some of the news was sad, but with an overall up-beat feel.

Bertie has a fun voice, obviously honed by a lot of Youtube videos and is very easy to listen to. If you're deciding between paper, ebook or audiobook I'd recommend audiobook (though I do that a lot, slightly biased ;p )...more

This is an important and relevant book and so I feel it deserves 5 stars. It narrates Alex Bertie's transition from female to male and all that comes along: understanding his feelings, coming to terms with his sexuality and gender identity, coming out to his family and starting medical procedures like hormone treatment and top surgery. This was very informative, both to trans people and people from all the ends of the gender spectrum. His Youtube videos are extremely important and clear and thisThis is an important and relevant book and so I feel it deserves 5 stars. It narrates Alex Bertie's transition from female to male and all that comes along: understanding his feelings, coming to terms with his sexuality and gender identity, coming out to his family and starting medical procedures like hormone treatment and top surgery. This was very informative, both to trans people and people from all the ends of the gender spectrum. His Youtube videos are extremely important and clear and this book focuses on specific details of Alex's transition. I feel more informed and recommend TransMission to everyone.

I seem to have a habit of buying the memoirs of youtubers I haven't actually watched, admittedly in this case mostly because the title is a pun. Trans Mission doesn't really do much that's new if you're familiar with trans 101, but as an account of this one person's transition, rather than as The One True Guide To Transliness™, it's easy to read and has a good voice, and Alex says a lot of the right things in regards to respecting nonbinary identities etc, but in a simplistic, approachable way tI seem to have a habit of buying the memoirs of youtubers I haven't actually watched, admittedly in this case mostly because the title is a pun. Trans Mission doesn't really do much that's new if you're familiar with trans 101, but as an account of this one person's transition, rather than as The One True Guide To Transliness™, it's easy to read and has a good voice, and Alex says a lot of the right things in regards to respecting nonbinary identities etc, but in a simplistic, approachable way that can help cis people understand the topic. Ultimately I don't think that I, as a nonbinary adult with an already solid grasp on how being a gender minority works, was part of the target audience of this book, but I am glad it exists....more

It's very informative for people who have a Transgender male in their life. Personally for me, it was very emotional and like having a conversation with Alex himself. I found him on YouTube 2-3 years ago when I was trying to figure out my gender for myself and began relating to him so much. While reading his personal account in this book sometimes I lost track of time and other got teary eyed while reading it in a public space. I wish my family members and friends would read it too so that theyIt's very informative for people who have a Transgender male in their life. Personally for me, it was very emotional and like having a conversation with Alex himself. I found him on YouTube 2-3 years ago when I was trying to figure out my gender for myself and began relating to him so much. While reading his personal account in this book sometimes I lost track of time and other got teary eyed while reading it in a public space. I wish my family members and friends would read it too so that they can become more informed and even get to understand me better.Thank you Alex for penning down this personal account!☺️👍...more

Trans Mission is an open, honest, educational and enjoyable read. I found Alex's journey to be interesting, and relatable. I did wish, however, he had gotten a little more personal. There were times he would mention something and I'd think "oh, this is going to be a good story," only to have it glossed over in one or two sentences. I finished the book feeling like I don't know much about Alex outside of his being transgender and his journey through transitioning, which is the only reason I didn'Trans Mission is an open, honest, educational and enjoyable read. I found Alex's journey to be interesting, and relatable. I did wish, however, he had gotten a little more personal. There were times he would mention something and I'd think "oh, this is going to be a good story," only to have it glossed over in one or two sentences. I finished the book feeling like I don't know much about Alex outside of his being transgender and his journey through transitioning, which is the only reason I didn't give it 5 stars. Highly recommended otherwise....more

Alex, I've been watching your YouTube channel for years and watching you grow and change into the person you are today. I was so excited to read this book, and to my joy it was as honest, friendly, informative and refreshing as your videos are. To top it all off, I thought it was lovely and so important to have your mum's words and thoughts too. This is a brilliant book for trans people, and anyone wanting to understand trans people, covering all aspects of being trans, emotionally and physicallAlex, I've been watching your YouTube channel for years and watching you grow and change into the person you are today. I was so excited to read this book, and to my joy it was as honest, friendly, informative and refreshing as your videos are. To top it all off, I thought it was lovely and so important to have your mum's words and thoughts too. This is a brilliant book for trans people, and anyone wanting to understand trans people, covering all aspects of being trans, emotionally and physically, including health and important issues. Seriously loved it. Well done mate!...more

If you are the parent, friend or relative of somebody who is transgender, please give this book a go. Reading this was such a relief, seeing experiences and thoughts so similar to my own down in words - totally unreal. I think everyone needs to read this book, trans or not - it is so full of education, tips and stories that will help you on your journey, or for you to help support and understand somebody on their journey. I feel like everyone could learn some amazing things from this book - I loIf you are the parent, friend or relative of somebody who is transgender, please give this book a go. Reading this was such a relief, seeing experiences and thoughts so similar to my own down in words - totally unreal. I think everyone needs to read this book, trans or not - it is so full of education, tips and stories that will help you on your journey, or for you to help support and understand somebody on their journey. I feel like everyone could learn some amazing things from this book - I love....more

If you know of a trans teen or young man struggling with his gender dysphoria, give him this book. Definitely appropriate for high school boys...and for their family and friends as well. While the author writes mostly of what he knows--that of being labeled as a girl at birth and transitioning to a boy--much of what he says about dealing with the emotional struggles is applicable to MTF transitions.